Neighborhood Service Center, Manila Food Pantry relocate

A ribbon cutting dedicated the location for the Manila Food Pantry and the Neighborhood Service Office. (Town Crier photo/Revis Blaylock)

The Manila Food Pantry and the Neighborhood Service Center have relocated to 203 North Baltimore (Main Street) in Manila.

The newly remodeled building was renovated with office space for both services in the front of the building.

The building was closed off from the street and used as storage for many years. The building was opened up from the street with windows. The storage area provides 24x50' room with shelves, freezer space and work area.

Manila Food Pantry and Neighborhood Service Center now located on Manila Main Street.

Tammy Evans is the EOC representative. Before moving to the new location, she had office space at City Hall. She is open in Manila on Monday, Tuesday and Friday.

The new location is where the commodities will be distributed for those who qualify. The EOC also helps with utility bill assistance.

The food pantry has been in Manila for six years. It was located on Concord Street. It was started to provide a need by Sandra Hicks, director and Angie Master, coordinator. Also serving s assistant director of the food pantry is Regenia Lorren.

"We love the new location," Hicks said. "We have room here for people to come in. We have an office space, lots of room to fill the boxes, and the food is picked up at the back door. People do not even have to get out of their cars when they pick up the food."

The Manila food pantry is open every Thursday. Sign in is 10 a.m. and food is picked up starting at 1 p.m. at the back door.

The Manila Food Pantry is managed by all volunteers.

Hicks said they appreciate all of the volunteers, the food donations, and the partnership they have established with Manila Middle School students.

"The Manila Middle School students got involved a couple of years ago and they have really made a difference," Hicks said. "They raised enough money to purchase over 200 turkeys to go with the food boxes during the holidays."

Hicks said they get food from Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Also Pack 32 Boy Scouts help with food collections. Hicks Dollar General, Rice Depot, USDA and others help with the food supply.

Hicks said anyone who has an emergency and is in need of food can call 870-838-4040 anytime and she will try to help.